Pursuing Social Justice: Yom Kippur Activities for Families
A Jewish Response to Political Scandal
As we witness public figures dismantled by the revelation of ugly episodes from their pasts, we parents must distill these events and their aftermath for our children.
Kol Nidre
"All Vows;" prayer recited on the eve of Yom Kippur, the holiest day on the Jewish calendar;
machzor
"Cycle;" High Holiday prayerbook; plural: machzorim.
N'ilah
Literally, “locking.” The service that concludes Yom Kippur. The name alludes to the metaphorical locking of the heavenly gates at the end of the day.
Shabbat Shuvah
"Sabbath of Return;" the Shabbat (sabbath) between the holidays of Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur. A special haftarah is read and traditionally the rabbi gives a sermon related to repentance.
shofar
Ram’s horn most commonly blown throughout the month of Elul and during the High Holiday season.
Selichot
"Forgiveness;" special penitential prayers recited during Elul and the High Holidays.
T'shuvah
Vidui
"Confession;" liturgical prayer recited throughout Yom Kippur; confessional said before death.